benzodiazepine

noun

ben·​zo·​di·​az·​e·​pine ˌben-zō-dī-ˈa-zə-ˌpēn 

: any of a group of aromatic lipophilic amines (such as diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) used especially as tranquilizers

Examples of benzodiazepine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In 2022, Rios was back in court facing misdemeanor charges for being under the influence of drugs, possession of heroin and Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed to treat anxiety or panic disorders, and possession of an injection device. — Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026

The drawbacks of benzodiazepines Scientists began raising alarms about benzodiazepines more than 20 years ago. — Paula Span, Miami Herald, 17 Sep. 2026

Purging her system of benzodiazepines was a far more painful process than coming off cocaine ever was. — Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 14 Sep. 2026

Anti-anxiety medications, including benzodiazepines such as Ativan, Librium, Xanax and Valium, can work quickly to ease extreme worry, fear, social anxiety or panic attacks. — Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

benz- + di- + az- + -epine (from hepta- + -ine entry 2)

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for benzodiazepine

• carbamazepine

Medical Definition

benzodiazepine

noun

ben·​zo·​di·​az·​e·​pine ˌben-zō-dī-ˈaz-ə-ˌpēn 

: any of a group of aromatic lipophilic amines (as diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) used especially as tranquilizers